Does My Insurance Cover Me If I Drive Someone Else’s Car?

It’s a question many drivers in the UK ask at some point: “Can I drive someone else’s car and still be insured?” Whether it’s borrowing a friend’s vehicle for a weekend, driving a family member’s car or needing a temporary replacement while yours is being serviced, understanding how insurance works in these situations is important. Getting it wrong could leave you financially exposed, or worse, driving illegally.

The short answer is: it depends. Car insurance policies are usually tied to the named policyholder and their vehicle. In most cases, you’re only automatically insured to drive your own car. Driving someone else’s vehicle is not automatically covered unless the policy explicitly allows it.

Driving Other Cars Cover

Some UK car insurance policies include a feature called “driving other cars”. This provides limited coverage when you borrow someone else’s vehicle, typically only for third-party liability. That means you’d be covered for damage you might cause to other people, their vehicles, or property but not for damage to the car you are driving. Comprehensive cover for someone else’s car usually isn’t included unless specifically arranged.

The exact rules vary by insurer. Some only allow occasional use, such as emergencies or short term borrowing. Others may have restrictions, like excluding vans, high performance vehicles or cars owned by family members living at the same address. It’s essential to check the policy wording before driving another car.

Permission from the Vehicle Owner

Even if your own insurance policy allows “driving other cars,” it’s equally important to have the owner’s permission. Driving without consent can invalidate any insurance cover and may be treated as theft by the insurer. Sounds obvious, but always ensure you have explicit permission from the vehicle owner before you get behind the wheel.

Named Drivers

Another option is to be added as a named driver on someone else’s policy. This provides full coverage for that car under the policyholder’s terms. Named driver status can be short term or long term, depending on the insurer. While this can increase the policy premium slightly, it ensures you’re fully covered for both third-party liability and any damage to the vehicle.

Temporary or Short-Term Insurance

For situations like borrowing a car for a weekend or a holiday, a temporary car insurance policy can be an effective solution. Many UK insurers offer cover for 1–28 days, providing flexibility and legal protection without needing to be added as a named driver to someone else’s policy. Temporary insurance is particularly useful for young drivers, new drivers or anyone borrowing a high value or unusual vehicle.

Things to Consider

Exclusions and restrictions: Always read the policy wording to see if there are limits on age, driving experience or vehicle type.

Excess amounts: If damage occurs, the excess may be higher than your own policy and you might need to pay it upfront.

Claim impact: Any claims made while driving another car may affect your own insurance record and future premiums.

Vehicle condition: Make a note of the car’s condition before you drive it to avoid disputes over pre-existing damage.

Practical Advice

Before driving someone else’s car, ask yourself: Am I covered? Do I have the owner’s permission? Would it be safer to arrange temporary insurance or be added as a named driver? Taking a few minutes to check can save you from significant financial and legal problems later.

The answer isn’t distinct, driving another person’s car in the UK isn’t automatically covered by your own insurance. Limited “driving other cars” cover may exist, but it usually only includes third-party liability. Full coverage requires either being added as a named driver or taking out a temporary insurance policy. Always check the terms, get the owner’s consent and ensure you understand what is and isn’t covered. With the right precautions, borrowing or driving another car can be a convenient solution without compromising your protection or breaking the law.

More Articles

About This Page

Our articles, guides & reviews are provided as generic information only. Any expressed view, product or service mentioned within these does not constitute as financial advice or recommendation by us.

Be mindful that information may have changed since publication